JLS singer Aston Merrygold has officially become the first member of the band to start his solo career, after scoring a recording contract with Warner Bros. Records.

Aston shared the happy news via Instagram, telling fans that he can’t wait to get in the studio and start working on new music.

Along with a snap of himself signing the contract, Aston penned a lengthy caption, which begins: “Someone once told me enjoy every minute of it... I've known this day was coming for over a week and been fine, driven, motivated.. READY to just get working asap!”

“But I've not actually sat back n enjoyed the thought of being signed to a record label on my own,” he continues. “I was lucky enough to be a part of what I think is one of the best boy bands this country has ever produced!

“The best fans, the best team, the best band mates/brothers hands down! But I've had a dream since I was young watching my idols do there thing, there way and how they wanted and I can't believe I get a shot at that.” [sic]

Aston goes on to thank his new colleagues, family, and “most importantly” the fans who’ve supported him since “day dot”.

JLS split in December 2013

While Aston is the first member of JLS to nab a new deal, his former bandmates have been successful in pursuing other avenues.